How to Prevent Mildew on Leather

by Chris Anzalone

Leather holds moisture, and persistent moisture poses a mildew risk.

Mildew can grow on any wet surface under the right conditions. The surface just requires a coating of living, organic material like dirt, or it must consist of an organic material that the spores can feed on. Leather naturally consists of mold-friendly nutrients, so if you want to avoid mildew growth on your leather jacket, shoes or handbag, you must take proactive measures to keep the material clean and dry.

1

Spray your leather with a low-pressure spray specially designated for leather goods. You can find these sprays at leather retailers, luggage stores and shoe stores. Follow the manufacturer's directions for frequency of use. Aerosol sprays help to protect leather from moisture, and without moisture, mold and mildew cannot grow. Before spraying the entire garment, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that the color remains intact.

2

Apply a thin layer of wax dressing to your leather goods. You can find specialized shoe waxes made with mildewcidal chemicals, but even a floor wax can provide protection against moisture, according to a University of Missouri Extension report. Once again, test the wax on a small area first, because certain shoe waxes may discolor white or lightly colored leather.

3

Clean your leather regularly. Mildew grows where dirt lives, so always keep your leather articles as clean as you possibly can. By wiping down your garments with equal parts water and white vinegar, you can proactively prevent spores from forming, because vinegar has natural anti-fungal properties.

4

Store your leather in a dry place. Never leave leather outdoors or in any location where moisture can actively penetrate it and cause mildew growth. If you live with extreme humidity, seal your leather articles in airtight bags. If your leather ever does become damp or humid, dry it using heat, fans or a dehumidifier.

5

Remove any signs of mildew as soon as you notice them. Wipe down your articles with a soft cloth, moistened with equal amounts rubbing alcohol and water. Then dry the leather thoroughly and apply a new layer of aerosol spray or wax dressing. Signs of mildew include wet, dark or light patches, sometimes accompanied by a musty odor.

About the Author

Chris Anzalone has been writing professionally since 2001. He is a former staff writer and associate editor for Opposing Views, a popular news media website that tackles issues of the day from multiple perspectives. Anzalone holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of California at Riverside.

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